Docia "Marilyn" (Sims) Maxey

Docia Marilyn (Sims) Maxey, 80, was called to Heaven on April 9, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born on August 24, 1945, in Marianna, Florida, to John Mallory Sims Jr. and Virginia Luke Sims.

Marilyn married the love of her life, Ben Larry Maxey, on September 16, 1967, and together they shared 58 beautiful years. She graduated from Columbus High School in Columbus, Georgia, in 1962 and later earned a humanities degree from a community college in Boston, Massachusetts. After moving with her family to Fort Smith, she began her career at the first Montgomery Ward catalog store in the city. She went on to serve the Muscular Dystrophy Association for more than 15 years as a support social worker, a role in which she touched countless lives.

In 2006, Marilyn and Ben joined First Christian Church, where she faithfully attended and served for the next 20 years. Her devotion to her church, her faith, and her community was evident in everything she did. A gifted and enthusiastic baker, Marilyn was known for her pound cake, cornbread dressing, peanut butter pie, banana pudding, and pork roast—recipes that became beloved staples at family gatherings. She also had a passion for tablescapes and delighted in decorating for every holiday, making each celebration feel special.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Ben Maxey of Fort Smith, AR; her oldest son, David Maxey of Pfafftown, NC; her granddaughters Abigail and Ashley Maxey of Alma, AR, and Mallory Maxey of Pfafftown, NC; her sister Janet Waters of Colorado Springs, CO; and her brother Mallory Sims of Gulf Breeze, FL. She was preceded in death by her youngest son, Alan Maxey of Alma, AR, in 2024.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at First Christian Church on Sunday, April 19, at 3 p.m. in Fort Smith. Attendees are encouraged to wear her favorite color—purple—in her honor.
Her family rejoices knowing she is home with the Lord, wrapped in everlasting peace. She leaves behind a lifetime of love that will continue to guide and comfort her family.

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